Search inside uploaded files with EPiServer

A simple explanation on how to get EPiServer to search inside uploaded files using the indexing service.

To get this running properly you need to set up your environment correct.
First we need to get the code right so here is a basic example:

<asp:repeater runat="server" datasourceid="SearchDS">
    <HeaderTemplate>
        <ul>
    </HeaderTemplate>
    <ItemTemplate>
        <li>
            <%# Eval( "PageName") %>
        </li>
    </ItemTemplate>
    <FooterTemplate>
        </ul>
    </FooterTemplate>
</asp:repeater>

Next you need to install the appropriate IFilters. These filters allow EPiServers indexing service to search and index different various file formats. Ifilters is included in some products like Adobe Reader or Microsoft office.

After you have installed all filters you think you will need, it’s time to fire up EPiServer CMS manager and make sure that the indexing service is running.

Upload some files and search for a word or frase inside the document.

I hope you find this article useful and feel free to post a comment.

Originally published at kloojed.ghost.io on January 31, 2008.